In winter, this deciduous shrub has clusters of sweetly scented, sulphur-yellow flowers clinging to bare twigs. In autumn, the bright green leaves turn spectacular shades of yellow, orange and red. The tiered branches of this award-winning variety of witch hazel contrast well with the vertical stems of dogwood. It is a lovely specimen plant for a sunny winter border or woodland edge, where its fragrance can be appreciated. The flowering twigs can be cut to perfume rooms in winter.

Garden care: In early-spring remove any misplaced, crossing or diseased branches and apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plant.